Studs and Duds for the Lions’ dominating win over the Jaguars

From start to finish, the Detroit Lions made a statement, solidifying their status as one of the NFL’s elite with a commanding 52-6 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The Lions’ offense was unstoppable, scoring touchdowns on all seven possessions before giving the starters a well-earned rest. What made this performance even more impressive was the consistent ability to march down the field, often starting with long drives. The depth of offensive weapons on this team was on full display, proving they can strike in multiple ways.

On the other side of the ball, the defense delivered a clinic, suffocating the Jaguars’ offense. They held Jacksonville to a meager 170 total yards and just ten first downs, completely neutralizing any hope of a comeback. This dominant performance not only extended the Lions’ win streak to eight games but also showcased their ability to take care of business against an inferior opponent without letting up.

Here’s a closer look at the Lions’ Studs and Duds from their dominant victory over the Jaguars.

Stud: Sun God and Waymo

Nov 17, 2024; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown (14) and wide receiver Jameson Williams (9) jump into the seat and celebrate St Brown’s touchdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the second half at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-Imagn Images

The Lions’ top two receivers accomplished a milestone they hadn’t yet achieved together: both eclipsing 100 receiving yards in the same game. This week, fans got a front-row seat to just how lethal Detroit’s aerial attack can be. Amon-Ra St. Brown delivered a career-best performance with 161 yards and two touchdowns, while Jameson Williams added 124 yards and a touchdown of his own.

The Goff-St. Brown connection was flawless, as Goff completed all 11 of his targets to the star receiver, reaffirming their status as one of the league’s premier duos. Meanwhile, Goff’s growing trust in Williams was evident, repeatedly looking his way and allowing the young receiver to shine. The duo put on a masterclass against a Jaguars secondary that has struggled this season, exploiting every mismatch and opportunity with surgical precision.

Stud: Sonic and Knuckles

DETROIT, MICHIGAN – NOVEMBER 17: Jahmyr Gibbs #26 of the Detroit Lions reacts after running for a first down in the second quarter of a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Ford Field on November 17, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

Another day at the office for “Sonic and Knuckles,” as David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs once again proved they’re arguably the best running back tandem in the league. Montgomery totaled 95 yards (75 rushing, 20 receiving) and punched in two touchdowns, while Gibbs added 123 total yards (69 rushing, 54 receiving) and joined the touchdown party with one of his own.

What makes this duo so dangerous is their versatility—both backs are equally capable of gashing defenses on the ground or through the air. Their complementary skill sets keep opposing defenses guessing and highlight just how dynamic the Lions’ offense can be. Whether it’s Montgomery’s bruising power or Gibbs’ electrifying speed and agility, watching these two work in tandem is worth the price of admission.

Stud: Jared Goff

DETROIT, MICHIGAN – NOVEMBER 17: Jared Goff #16 of the Detroit Lions runs the ball up the field in the third quarter of a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Ford Field on November 17, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)

After last week’s struggles, you had a feeling Jared Goff would come out determined to prove it was just a fluke—and mission accomplished. Goff delivered a near-flawless performance, finishing with a perfect 158.3 passer rating, throwing for 412 yards and four touchdowns. He even showcased his mobility, adding 21 rushing yards, just six yards shy of Jaguars running back Travis Etienne.

Goff was masterful, staying poised in the pocket and distributing the ball with precision. His performance helped the Lions set several franchise records, including the largest margin of victory (+46), total net yards (644), and total first downs (38). Watching him sling the ball with such confidence and control was a reminder of why he’s the leader of this offense. He didn’t just put last week behind him—he made a statement.

Stud: Total Defense

DETROIT, MICHIGAN – NOVEMBER 17: Kerby Joseph #31 of the Detroit Lions reacts after. play in the second quarter of a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Ford Field on November 17, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)

The Lions’ defense was an impenetrable force, shutting down everything the Jaguars threw at them. The run defense, as usual, dominated, holding the Jags to just 41 rushing yards, anchored by the immovable duo of DJ Reader and Alim McNeill. In the air, the secondary was just as suffocating, limiting Jacksonville to 138 passing yards. Kerby Joseph added another interception to his league-leading total, now at seven.

Za’Darius Smith notched his first sack as a Lion, while Terrion Arnold’s sticky coverage smothered receivers all game. Jack Campbell and Malcolm Rodriguez were relentless, flying to the ball and stuffing plays, and Brian Branch continued to be a tone-setter with his punishing hits. From top to bottom, this was a clinic by the Lions’ defense—absolutely stellar in every facet.

Dud: Injury Bug

Detroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone (34) walks off the field due to an injury during the first half against Jacksonville Jaguars at Ford Field in Detroit on Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024.

The Lions suffered another tough setback on defense as Alex Anzalone is expected to miss 6-8 weeks with a broken forearm. What initially appeared to be a routine play turned disastrous as Anzalone’s arm got rolled up, echoing the painful memory of Aidan Hutchinson’s recent injury. Anzalone’s on-field reaction, mouthing “it’s broken,” confirmed the worst for Lions fans. His absence will be significant—not only has he been a standout performer this season, but he’s also the undisputed leader of the defense.

Now, the spotlight shifts to Jack Campbell, who will be tasked with stepping into a more prominent leadership role. Fortunately, Campbell has already shown flashes of his ability to command the defense, and this will be his time to shine. While the Lions have embodied a resilient “next man up” mentality all season, there’s no denying that their linebacker depth is being seriously tested. Overcoming this loss will require every player to elevate their game.

This article was originally published by Usatoday.com. Read the original article here.